"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore"
- Matthew 13:47-48a
Jesus is frequently speaking about the "Kingdom of Heaven" in the Gospels. Our reading for today is from the Gospel of Matthew and it showcases the breadth of ways that Jesus is trying to explain the mystery of the Kingdom of Heaven so that all who hear can come close and explore it for themselves. He describes the Kingdom of Heaven as a "treasure in a field" and a "merchant in search of fine pearls."
The image that comes alive for me is the Kingdom of Heaven as a "net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind". Right now I feel like one of those fish, aimlessly wandering through my routines, often having to check to even see what day of the week it is.
The Good News of the Gospel today is that God knows exactly where we are. Not only that, but we can trust that even as we wander and possibly find ourselves worrying if we are using this time correctly, God is still drawing us close to the Kingdom of Heaven. As we slowly entertain the different ways we can begin meeting again as a church family, I picture the net from the Gospel, being pulled in at its ends and we are being drawn back into one body.
I pray that wherever you find yourself today that you remain comforted that the Kingdom of Heaven is right in front of us. It can look different throughout the phases of our lives. However, it is always before us, awaiting us to come close and see.
Musical Meditation I'll Fly Away - Paul Weber and Chip Wilson
O God, in the course of this busy life, give us times of refreshment and peace; and grant that we may so use our leisure to rebuild our bodies and renew our minds, that our
spirits may be opened to the goodness of your creation; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."For the Good Use of Leisure", The Book of Common Prayer, pg. 825
